William Andrews Kirmse, known lovingly as “Andy,” passed away peacefully on June 30, 2025, at the age of 83. Born on June 16, 1942, at the French Hospital in New York City to William Albert and Jane (Andrews) Kirmse, Andy led a remarkable life full of international adventures, hospitality leadership, and a lifelong dedication to service.

Andy graduated from Deerfield Academy in 1960. He put college on hold to serve in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War from 1963 to 1967. After his military service, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Hotel Administration from Cornell University, and later a Master of Business Administration from Columbia University .

His distinguished global hotel career began with Inter-Continental Hotels in West Africa, Asia (including Thailand, Indonesia, and Pakistan), and the Middle East , where he held positions including Food and Beverage Manager, Resident Manager, and General Manager in countries such as Liberia and Pakistan.

Returning to the U.S., Andy’s first role was at the Barclay Hotel in New York City, followed by management positions at the Hotel Inter-Continental in Miami, Florida , and the historic Saint Anthony Hotel in San Antonio, Texas. In Texas, Andy also served the community as a Deputy Sheriff in Bexar County and was elected President of the SPOA Board, where he led initiatives to beautify the neighborhood and improve quality of life for residents.

Professionally, he was active in organizations such as the San Antonio Hotel and Motel Association, Chaine des Rôtisseurs, American Management Association, Hotel Sales Management Association, and several private clubs.

From 1986 to 1993, Andy served as Vice President and General Manager of Hotel Nikko San Francisco, one of the city's most celebrated luxury hotels. His leadership left a lasting mark on the Bay Area's hospitality landscape. He later consulted for major companies such as Priceline, Swiss Hotels , and Synxis (a division of Sabre Systems). He also co-developed and managed a Holiday Inn Express & Suites in American Canyon, California .

Andy generously shared his time with many civic and professional organizations. He served on the boards of the San Francisco Visitors and Convention Bureau, San Francisco Rotary Club (President), San Francisco Hearing and Speech Center, University of San Francisco Hospitality Board, and the San Francisco Hotel Council . He also volunteered with the Business Council of the De Young Museum .

Andy is survived by his beloved wife, Christie, and their three children: David (wife Jenna ), Christopher, and McRae. One of Andy's most tender habits was using sign language “I love you” to his son, Chris — a quiet yet powerful expression of his love. He is also survived by his brother, Steve, and his sister, Dorothy Scarlett. Andy was a very proud father, grandfather, and uncle, who cherished his time with family. He is fondly remembered by his grandchildren — River, Piper, and Sienna — as well as his nieces and nephew.

One of Andy’s favorite places was Camp Adirondack in New York, where he spent many summers as a child and young adult. The camp remained close to his heart throughout his life, symbolizing his deep love for nature, wonderful memories, and lifelong friendships. This is where his ashes will be spread.

He was devoted to his family, a thoughtful neighbor, and a generous friend to many people around the world. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the communities he helped build.

A memorial service celebrating Andy’s life was held at the Hills Country Club in Lakeway, Texas, where family and close friends gathered to share memories and honor his extraordinary legacy.

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